Exposing the Climate Cover-Up: The Haunting Story of Degree of Certainty

A new short film, Degree of Certainty, is set to make its American premiere at the Rhode Island International Film Festival, bringing a decades-old climate crisis cover-up to the forefront. The film, directed by Simon Schneider, tells the story of a young risk analyst working for a major American oil company in 1982, who discovers that the company has been aware of the climate crisis for years but has chosen to keep it under wraps.

The film is based on the true story of how American oil corporations discovered the climate crisis in the 1950s and 1960s but decided to deny their findings. Schneider was surprised to learn about this history and how rarely it is discussed in the broader climate conversation. The film aims to shed light on this critical issue and spark a conversation about responsibility, politicized science, and climate action.

The story follows a young analyst who is trying to prove himself in the company and secure a respected job and future. However, when he discovers the internal report on the climate crisis, he is faced with a difficult decision: protect his future or challenge the institution offering it to him. The film explores the tight, uneasy mood of a corporate conspiracy thriller, where routine conversations become loaded, and scientific findings become evidence.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way it highlights the conflict between the company's knowledge of the climate crisis and their decision to keep it hidden. The title, Degree of Certainty, refers to the tactic of climate deniers to spread doubt about the certainty of scientific results, which can keep action conveniently out of reach. Schneider explains that this conflict shaped the title and the film's narrative.

The film has received critical acclaim, including the Young Director Award - Silver at Cannes Lions in 2026. Schneider developed Degree of Certainty as his AFI Conservatory thesis film with support from Amazon MGM Studios. He is now expanding the short into a feature film, which promises to delve deeper into the complexities of the climate crisis and the role of corporations in shaping public discourse.

Degree of Certainty screens on Saturday, August 8, at 6:30 PM as part of the Pivotal Moments shorts program at Apple Cinemas Providence Place, Cinema 6. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in climate action, corporate accountability, and the power of individual agency. As Schneider hopes, the film will leave audiences talking about responsibility, politicized science, and how climate action can still come from a place of hope and empowerment.

The film's premiere at the Rhode Island International Film Festival is particularly significant, given the state's vulnerability to rising seas, flooding, and severe weather. The festival provides a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and spark important conversations about the most pressing issues of our time. Degree of Certainty is a powerful example of the impact that film can have in promoting climate awareness and inspiring action.

For those interested in learning more about the film, visit degreeofcertainty.xyz or follow @degreeofcertainty_film on Instagram. To purchase tickets or view the complete Flickers schedule, visit Film-Festival.org. The film's message is clear: climate action is not just a responsibility, but an opportunity for empowerment and hope.